From the Back Pages, July 2: Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku on target in extra-time thriller

From the back pages

Published:07:09Wednesday 02 July 2014

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A World Cup quarter-final against Argentina awaits Belgium as their much-vaunted golden generation eventually broke the resistance of a spirited USA side after a thrilling contest in Salvador. (x)

Great players never give up. Great players do historic things in key moments. Lionel Messi is the most accomplished, successful and feted footballer of his generation because he cannot be subdued for long. Tightly marked and facing a Swiss defence that resembled a forbidding mountain range at times, Argentina’s No 10 conjured up some magic when it mattered most. (The Telegraph)

Liverpool have given the first indication that Luis Suárez’s future lies away from Anfield by agreeing to open talks with Barcelona over the transfer of the disgraced striker. (The Guardian)

A delegation from Spain has requested to meet Anfield chief executive Ian Ayre and Liverpool will now take the opportunity to register their own interest in Alexis Sanchez, who could be used as a makeweight in any deal. (The Express)

Arsenal are pressing ahead with an £11m move for Newcastle right-back Mathieu Debuchy. Manager Arsene Wenger is after a new right-back following the departure of Bacary Sagna to Manchester City. (Daily Mail)

Stirring victory for teenager Nick Kyrgios delights legion of Australian greats. Nick Kyrgios walked off Centre Court in the manner of a young player who expects to do so in the future cradling a golden trophy in his arms. Maybe it will happen in five days’ time. (The Times)

Wild thing Nick Kyrgios pulled off one of the biggest Wimbledon upsets in history by toppling world No.1 Rafa Nadal - and even shocked his mum. (The Mirror)